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Spaceborne astronomy with electro-optical image sensorsThe Space Telescope, planned for orbiting in the early 1980s, is described, with emphasis on its electro-optical image sensing capability. Relative advantages of image tubes and solid state arrays as image detectors are summarized; image tube technology is well characterized, but preference may be given to a more versatile tandem solid state array consisting of one module with high silicon response covering most of the spectrum, and a second intensified array with ultraviolet sensitivity and low noise readout. The classical 'photoelectron noise limit' calculation is reviewed, and a detailed calculation of sensitivity limits adaptable to analysis of image tube or solid state array detectors is also given. In particular, characteristics of a filter to optimize the signal to noise ratio is determined. Typical sensitivity calculations for an image tube detector show that with an exposure of one orbital night (approximately 2000 seconds), 10% photometry may be done to a low limit of visual magnitude.
Document ID
19770058657
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Bradley, W. C.
(Itek Corp. Lexington, Mass., United States)
Date Acquired
August 9, 2013
Publication Date
June 1, 1977
Publication Information
Publication: Optical Engineering
Volume: 16
Subject Category
Astronomy
Accession Number
77A41509
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAS8-29949
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAS8-27948
CONTRACT_GRANT: NASW-2313
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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